More Social Security

Q: How much will I get in benefits each month based on the record of my former spouse?

A: The most that you, as a divorced spouse, can get is an amount equal to 50 percent of what your spouse is due at his full retirement age. But to get that 50 percent, you've got to wait until you've reached your own full retirement age. Otherwise, you'll get a discounted amount. For instance, if you claim at age 62, you'll get only 35 percent of his or her full benefit.

One more thing: The spouse's benefit is always based on the full retirement benefit of the worker, even if that person began receiving before reaching that age.

Q: Will the benefits paid to me as a divorced spouse or surviving divorced spouse be affected if benefits are being paid to members of my ex-spouse's new family?

A: No. Your benefits will not be affected. They will even be exempted from the so-called family maximum, a rule that can reduce benefits if multiple members of a family are collecting at the same time on a single work record.

Q. How do I apply for a divorced spouse's benefits?

A: You can apply online at socialsecurity.gov or by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778). Or visit a Social Security office. An appointment, Social Security advises, is not necessary, but if you call ahead and schedule one, it may reduce your waiting time.

When you apply, Social Security will ask you to provide several documents to show that you're eligible. These documents may include:

Your birth certificate or other proof of your birth.

Proof of citizenship or lawful alien status if you were not born in the United States.

U.S. military discharge papers if you had military service before 1968.